HS 853620 Automatic circuit breakers
Quick Answer: Automatic circuit breakers imported under HS 853620 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.30%, and the US at 2.7% (MFN). This classification covers devices designed to automatically interrupt an electric circuit when an overcurrent or fault is detected, protecting electrical systems from damage. Importers should note that the US offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners under specific provisions, a detail often aggregated by CustomTariffs. Understanding these varying rates and preferential treatments is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management in international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536201090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8536209000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8536209010 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8536209090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8536200000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536200000 | 2.30 % | — | — |
| 8536201000 | 2.30 % | — | — |
| 8536201010 | 2.30 % | — | — |
| 8536201090 | 2.30 % | — | — |
| 8536209000 | 2.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85362000 | 2.7% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 8536200040 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8536200020 | — | — | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 8536.20?
Imports of Automatic circuit breakers may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 853620 cover?
This subheading covers automatic circuit breakers, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are electrical apparatus designed to interrupt the electric circuit automatically when a fault current exceeding a predetermined value occurs. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, typically include devices like molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) and miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) rated for a specific voltage and amperage, intended for the protection of electrical installations.
What falls outside HS 853620?
The following products are excluded from HS 853620: manually operated switches, relays, fuses, and other protective devices that do not automatically interrupt the circuit based on fault conditions. For instance, simple toggle switches (HS 853650), thermal overload relays (HS 853649), and fuses (HS 853610) are classified under different subheadings. Devices designed for overvoltage protection, such as surge protective devices, also fall outside this specific category.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853620?
A common error is misclassifying combination devices that include circuit breaker functionality alongside other features, such as motor starters or disconnect switches. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods composed of different materials or components which cannot be distinguished by their essential character are classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may also incorrectly classify devices that offer protection but do not meet the specific definition of an "automatic circuit breaker."
How should importers classify products under HS 853620?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853620 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended function. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the device is indeed an automatic circuit breaker, designed to interrupt current upon detecting an overcurrent condition. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, and potentially seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853620?
A 100 Amp, 240 Volt molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 7.0% × $50.00 = $3.50. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 853620.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853620?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853620, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 853620 (Automatic circuit breakers) into the United States?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for automatic circuit breakers under HS code 853620 entering the United States is 2.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply for goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). For example, under the USMCA, originating goods may be eligible for duty-free entry. Always verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) on the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website for the most current rates and any applicable trade agreements.
How is the import duty for HS code 853620 calculated for a shipment to the U.S.?
The duty for HS code 853620 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of 100 automatic circuit breakers, each valued at $50, is imported into the U.S. with a standard MFN duty rate of 2.5%, the calculation would be: Total Value = 100 units * $50/unit = $5,000. Duty Amount = $5,000 * 2.5% = $125. It is crucial to use the correct declared value (usually the transaction value) and the applicable duty rate from the HTSUS.
What are the key classification criteria for automatic circuit breakers under HS code 853620?
HS code 853620 covers automatic circuit breakers designed to protect electrical circuits from overcurrents or short circuits. Key classification criteria include their function (automatic interruption of current), their voltage rating (typically for circuits not exceeding 1,000 volts), and their construction. Devices that are manually operated or do not possess automatic tripping mechanisms would generally not be classified under this code. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (HS) provided by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing automatic circuit breakers (HS 853620) into the EU?
When importing automatic circuit breakers (HS 853620) into the European Union (EU), importers and customs brokers must typically provide an import declaration. This declaration includes the correct HS code, a description of the goods, their origin, value, and quantity. Depending on the voltage and intended use, safety certifications or declarations of conformity (e.g., CE marking) may be required to demonstrate compliance with EU safety standards. Consult the EU's TARIC database for specific duty rates, potential import restrictions, and any additional documentation requirements based on the country of origin and the specific type of circuit breaker.
How do trade agreements, such as the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, affect the duty rates for HS code 853620 when importing into the UK?
For goods classified under HS code 853620 (automatic circuit breakers) imported into the United Kingdom from the EU, the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) generally allows for zero tariffs, provided the goods meet the Rules of Origin stipulated in the agreement. This means the circuit breakers must be 'originating' goods. If the goods do not meet the Rules of Origin, the standard UK Global Tariff (UKGT) rate will apply. Importers must be able to prove the origin of the goods through a valid declaration or certificate. Always refer to the UK Trade Tariff for the most up-to-date duty rates and origin requirements.